They set to work on the garden early this morning.
set to work
idiomTo begin working.
After the meeting ended, the team set to work on the new project immediately.
Once the architect finalized the blueprints, the construction crew set to work, transforming the empty lot into a modern office building.
- 01
all set
Ready, prepared, equipped.
- 02
busy work
Work or activity performed with the intention or result of occupying time, and not necessarily to accomplish something productive; routine work of low priority undertaken for the sake of avoiding idleness.
- 03
close enough for government work
Adequate; acceptable as government work, imperfect but not worth the time nor effort of improving.
- 04
crazy enough to work
Acknowledging that an idea, plan, or strategy seems foolish, implausible, or risky, yet might succeed precisely because of its unconventional or unexpected nature.
- 05
detective work
investigative research
- 06
dirty work
One or more unpleasant tasks, assignments, or employment duties, especially those of a disreputable or illicit nature.
- 07
do the work
To take part in social justice activism; to fight against racism, oppression, etc.
- 08
don't call me sir, I work for a living
Used by senior enlisted military personnel to indicate that they are not commissioned officers.
Last updated April 17, 2026